Public speaking

The 4-H/Tropicana Public Speaking Program annually helps more than 150,000 children in grades 4-6 learn how to write and deliver a speech, providing them the skills to communicate with clarity and comfort and to think quickly and nimbly.

At its core, the program allows students to work on a speech of their choice, guided by a teacher. Speeches must last at least two minutes, but no longer than three, and visual aids are not permitted.

Teachers select the top three speeches in each class, and those students earn honor ribbons.

Then each participating school selects its top three speeches, with those students earning medallions.

Finally, judges choose the top four speeches at a countywide contest, and those students each earn a plaque.